A Family Heirloom Revamped

During my recent 2015 recap I realized I never shared the refinish of my hope chest we had a local painter do, so that’s what I’m sharing today! It’s a large cedar chest that’s been handed down from my great grandmother and is my one true family heirloom so I was too nervous to refinish it myself. Luckily I connected with Anne-Tiques a husband and wife team who revamp and upcycle furniture and décor. Their style was very similar to mine and they immediately understood what my vision was so I knew they’d do a good job. Here’s a before shot of what they started with.

It was in good shape and study, but it was too dark for my style and needed a little touchup. I picked out a cream base and a light grey top coat so they could distress it a bit and let both colors show. Here’s how it looks now!

It also got a little tune up while they were prepping for paint. They repaired the front molding where there was a small crack and tightened up the legs so now it’s ready for another couple of generations. And it looks oh so lovely from the doorway of the guest room, where it holds a wealth of extra linens at the ready in case anyone needs an extra blanket during our cold Alaskan winters.

It’s no longer the dated clunky piece in the house, now you can see all it’s pretty details and it feels fresh and new. I couldn’t be happier! Have you refinished an heirloom antique? I’d love to hear about it. Leave me a comment or link below to share!